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Looking for the best things to do in Marrakech? I’ve got you covered!
Marrakech is a city like no other. Its bustling souks, breathtaking palaces, and vibrant culture make it unforgettable. But with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming. That’s where I come in!
Having visited Marrakech many times, I’ve experienced its magic firsthand and figured out what’s truly worth your time. From riding camels at sunset to exploring hidden corners of the medina, I’m here to help you make the most of your trip.
So to take the guesswork out of your planning, I’ve rounded up the 10 best things to do in Marrakech.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Marrakech was this day trip to the Atlas Mountains! We spent the day exploring this incredible area with epic experiences like a camel ride and scenic valley hike.
It’s super affordable – even for the private tour option!
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Marrakech, Morocco
- 1. Get to know Marrakech on a private city tour
- 2. Explore the Atlas Mountains and Three Valleys
- 3. Go on a 3-day camel trek to Merzouga
- 4. Taste your way around Marrakech
- 5. Go quad biking through the Agafay Desert
- 6. Take a sunrise hot air balloon flight
- 7. Escape the bustling city and take a day trip to Ouarzazate
- 8. Learn how to cook traditional Moroccan food
- 9. Go on a sunset camel ride through a palm grove
- 10. See the Ouzoud Waterfalls on a hiking and boat trip
- Where to Stay in Marrakech, Morocco
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Marrakech, Morocco
1. Get to know Marrakech on a private city tour


- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Time: 8 am, 8:30 am, 1:30 pm, 1:45 pm
- Highlights: Explore the attractions of Marrakesh on a private tour, see top landmarks such as the Koutoubia Mosque and Minaret, and visit highlights like the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and Jemaa el-Fnaa
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/dropoff, private transportation/driver, tour guide (if option selected)
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 1,100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Marrakech is an incredible city, but its winding streets, bustling medina, and hidden gems can make it tricky to explore on your own. That’s why this private sightseeing tour is such a game-changer! It’s a stress-free way to see the city’s highlights while getting the personalized attention you deserve.
This tour includes comfortable private transportation and takes you to all of the city’s top spots including the Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs, and the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Having a private vehicle and flexible schedule means you can explore at your own pace without the chaos of navigating crowded streets or large tour groups.
For an even better experience, I highly recommend upgrading to include a private guide when booking. Ours was incredible – full of stories and insider tips that brought Marrakech to life. Having a guide made everything so much easier and more enjoyable!
If you’re visiting Marrakech for the first time or just want to take the guesswork out of exploring, this tour is hands-down the best option. With a private guide and transport, it’s a seamless way to dive into the city’s vibrant history and culture. And with over 900 5-star reviews, you know it’s got to be good!
Check availability for this private city sightseeing tour here!
2. Explore the Atlas Mountains and Three Valleys


- Duration: 7 hours
- Time: 9 am, 9:30 am, 10 am
- Highlights: Visit the stunning Atlas Mountains and Three Valleys on a day trip, go on a camel ride, visit the home of a Berber family and learn about their lifestyle
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/dropoff, transport, guide, camel ride, tea
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 10,800+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
If you’re dreaming of stunning landscapes and a taste of authentic Berber culture, this Atlas Mountains and Three Valleys day trip is the perfect escape from Marrakech!
Our day started with a scenic drive into the Atlas Mountains, where I couldn’t stop snapping photos of the incredible landscapes. Once we arrived, we hopped on camels for a ride along peaceful mountain paths. The views were jaw-dropping, and it was such a fun, once-in-a-lifetime experience that I think everyone should try!
Next, we headed to the Imlil Valley for a hike. The fresh mountain air and lush greenery were a refreshing break from the city. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can opt for a mule ride instead, which is perfect for families or anyone who prefers to take it easy.
The day ended with a visit to a local Berber family home. Listening to stories about their culture and way of life was so interesting, and I highly recommend adding on the optional lunch – it was delicious!
When booking, you can choose between an affordable small-group tour or a private option for a more personalized experience. Either way, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable day full of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural connection (just check out the thousands of 5-star reviews!).
Learn more about my favorite Marrakech day trip here!
3. Go on a 3-day camel trek to Merzouga


- Duration: 3 days (2 nights)
- Time: 7:30 am
- Highlights: Explore the Merzouga desert on a 3-day tour, cross the High Atlas Mountains, visit the legendary world heritage site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, ride a camel in Erg Chebbi, try sandboarding, and spend the night at a Berbr desert camp
- Inclusions: Transportation, 1-night hotel accommodation, 1-night Berber camp accommodation, camel ride, sandboarding, 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 8,600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
If riding camels through the desert and sleeping under the stars sounds like your kind of adventure, this 3-day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is a must! It’s the perfect way to explore Morocco’s stunning landscapes and immerse yourself in Berber culture.
The journey kicks off with a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains, offering breathtaking views. Along the way, you’ll visit landmarks like the UNESCO-listed Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, a centuries-old fortress famous for its appearances in The Mummy and Game of Thrones.
The real highlight for me was arriving in Merzouga and venturing into the vast Sahara. We got to try sandboarding down the dunes and even rode camels at sunset – talk about a bucket-list moment!
That evening, we stayed in a traditional Berber camp, enjoying delicious local food, live music, and stargazing under the clearest night sky I’ve ever seen. You can opt to stay in a traditional Berber tent like we did or upgrade to a luxury private tent with your own bathroom for extra comfort.
This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers wanting a hassle-free way to explore Morocco’s desert landscapes. With a well-organized itinerary, comfortable transport, a mix of activities, and many meals included, it’s an experience you won’t forget!
Read the thousands of 5-star reviews and book your desert adventure here!
4. Taste your way around Marrakech


- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 6 pm
- Highlights: Go on a guided tour of 10 different food spots in the Jemaa el-Fna medina, learn about Morrocan cuisine and culture, and enjoy a delicious 3-course Moroccan dinner at a rooftop restaurant
- Inclusions: Certified local guide, dinner, food samples, mint tea
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 1,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re a foodie like me, this authentic Moroccan food tour in Marrakech is an absolute must! Exploring the city’s vibrant food scene with a local guide made this one of my favorite experiences in Morocco.
The tour takes you through the bustling streets of the medina, where you’ll sample everything from freshly baked bread to sizzling meats and aromatic tagines. You can even try snails if you’re feeling adventurous! My guide knew all the best spots, including hidden stalls I’d never have found on my own. We even stopped at a herbalist shop where I picked up some saffron to bring home!
The highlight of the evening was enjoying a 3-course dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the medina. The views of the city glowing under the night sky paired with mouthwatering dishes made for such a magical experience.
What I loved most about this tour was how it mixed food with culture. Along the way, our guide shared fascinating stories about the history of Moroccan cuisine and its importance in daily life.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just want to eat your way through Marrakech, this highly-rated tour (look at the amazing reviews here) offers an authentic and delicious glimpse into Moroccan culture. Just make sure to come hungry!
If you’re ready to eat your way through Marrakech, secure your spot here!
5. Go quad biking through the Agafay Desert


- Duration: 6 to 7 hours
- Time: 9 am or 3:30 pm
- Highlights: Go on an hour-long quadding adventure in the Agafay desert, experience a camel ride, take in scenic views of the desert at sunset, and enjoy a traditional Berber meal (if option selected)
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/dropoff, transportation, camel ride, quad ride, Moroccan tea, water, dinner (if option selected)
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 3,400+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
If you’re craving adventure and desert vibes, this Agafay Desert day trip is the ultimate tour from Marrakech! I did this tour recently, and let me tell you – it’s the perfect mix of adrenaline, stunning views, and delicious food.
The day kicks off with a convenient pickup from your accommodation and a scenic drive to the Agafay Desert. Once there, you’ll get a quick briefing before hopping on a quad bike. Zooming across the rugged terrain and taking in the panoramic desert views was such a thrill!
Next, we dressed in traditional nomadic outfits and hopped on camels for a peaceful ride through the desert. The outfits added a fun touch and made for some awesome photos.
For the best experience, I highly recommend booking the evening tour that starts at 3:30 pm and includes dinner. Watching the sunset over the desert was pure magic and the Moroccan feast under the stars was a highlight of my trip. They even had live music and traditional Berber performances!
If you’re looking for a day that combines adventure, culture, and relaxation, this tour is a no-brainer. Everything is taken care of, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy!
Secure your spot on this adventurous desert tour here before it sells out!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Take a sunrise hot air balloon flight


- Duration: 4 to 5 hours
- Time: 6 am or 7 am
- Highlights: Watch the sunrise from a hot air balloon, soak up the sights from the sky, enjoy the pilot’s live commentary, and indulge in a traditional Berber breakfast
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/dropoff, transportation, coffee/tea/water, breakfast
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 2,500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’ve never been on a hot air balloon ride, Marrakech is the perfect place to try it! I went on this hot air balloon ride the last time I was in Marrakech, and let me tell you, it was one of the most memorable experiences I’ve ever had!
The day begins bright and early with a convenient hotel pickup. When we arrived, we got to watch the crew prepare and inflate the balloon as the sun started to rise was such a cool experience. Once we were in the air, the views were absolutely stunning – we could see everything from the sprawling desert to the distant Atlas Mountains!
After landing, we were welcomed with a traditional Moroccan breakfast in a Berber tent. Freshly baked bread, honey, and mint tea never tasted so good after the excitement of the ride!
What I loved most about this tour was how smooth and well-organized everything felt. The guides and pilots were incredibly professional, ensuring we felt comfortable the entire time.
Whether it’s your first hot air balloon ride or you’ve done one before, this tour is something special. The combination of incredible views, a peaceful flight, and a delicious breakfast makes it an unforgettable part of any trip to Marrakech. You don’t have to just take my word for it either – have a look at all of the amazing 5-star reviews here!
Book your hot air balloon ride here and receive FREE 24-hour cancellation!
7. Escape the bustling city and take a day trip to Ouarzazate


- Duration: 11 to 12 hours
- Time: 7 am
- Highlights: Visit Ouarzazate on a day trip, tour a film studio, pass the Atlas Mountains and visit Ait Ben Haddou, and learn about Moroccan history
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/dropoff, transport with A/C, guide
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check out the 1,600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
For movie lovers, this day trip to Ouarzazate, aka the “Hollywood of Morocco,” is a must-do activity when visiting Marrakech.
This desert city has served as the backdrop for countless iconic films and TV shows, including Gladiator, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones. Walking through the filming locations felt like stepping straight into the scenes themselves!
The tour starts with a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains, offering breathtaking views of rugged landscapes and traditional Berber villages. Along the way, you’ll stop at Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous filming locations in the world! As we explored this ancient village, I couldn’t help but picture all the movie magic that’s unfolded here over the years!
Once in Ouarzazate, you’ll visit the Atlas Film Studios, where many blockbusters were filmed. Touring the massive sets and learning about how they’ve been used in productions was so fascinating – I even recognized a few spots from movies I love!
This day trip is perfect for anyone who loves history, movies, or just exploring unique places. With round-trip transportation included, it’s a stress-free way to dive into the world of Moroccan film and culture. Just make sure to bring some extra cash for lunch and your camera!
Learn more about this day trip and read the great reviews here!
8. Learn how to cook traditional Moroccan food


- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10 am, 2 pm, or 5:30 pm
- Highlights: Learn to cook a traditional 3-course Moroccan meal from a local chef, visit a souk to buy fresh ingredients, and enjoy the meal you create along with mint tea
- Inclusions: Local English-speaking guide and chef, ingredients, lunch/dinner, coffee/tea
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 1,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
For a truly authentic local experience, this Moroccan cooking class was one of the highlights of my time in Marrakech.
Led by the incredible female duo of Chefs Khmisa and Kawtar, this hands-on class not only teaches you how to make Moroccan dishes but also gives you a glimpse into the culture and traditions behind the cuisine.
The experience starts with a guided trip to the local market, where the chefs help you pick out fresh ingredients while sharing their knowledge of Moroccan spices and cooking traditions. Their energy and passion made the whole process so much fun, and I learned so much about the local food scene!
Back at Khmisa’s home, the cooking begins. Chef Khmisa’s expertise and warm personality made the whole process so enjoyable. Together, we prepared a 3-course meal with dishes such as tagine and Moroccan salads. She shared tips and tricks you can’t get from a recipe book, and of course, we got to taste everything as we went along – which was my favorite part!
Sitting down at the end to enjoy the meal we had just prepared was so rewarding. It felt like being part of a Moroccan family for the day. If you want to dive into local culture, learn some new cooking skills, and enjoy incredible food, this is an experience you can’t miss – I mean just look at all of its glowing reviews!
Reserve your spot here and don’t pay a cent until just before you go!
9. Go on a sunset camel ride through a palm grove


- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 5:30 pm
- Highlights: Enjoy a camel ride through a scenic palm grove, watch the sunset over the desert, sip on mint tea at a traditional Berber home
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/dropoff, guide, touareg dress, snacks, tea
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’ve been reading along so far, you already know how much I love camel riding in Marrakech! While many of the tours I’ve mentioned include camel rides, this sunset camel experience is perfect if you’re short on time or simply want to enjoy a ride without any other added activities.
The adventure begins with a hotel pickup and a visit to a local Berber family home for traditional Moroccan mint tea. Chatting with the family about their way of life was such a unique and enriching cultural moment.
Next, we headed to the palm grove, we were matched with our camels (mine was adorably named Ali Baba!) and geared up in traditional nomadic outfits. Dressing the part was half the fun and made for some fantastic photos!
As we gently swayed along the desert trails, the setting sun cast a golden glow over the landscape. It was the perfect time to unwind and take in the tranquil atmosphere.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, this tour is a must-do for anyone wanting to escape the hustle and experience the tranquil beauty of Marrakech. With so many glowing reviews, it’s clear I’m not the only one who loved it!!
Check availability for this popular sunset tour here!
10. See the Ouzoud Waterfalls on a hiking and boat trip


- Duration: 10 hours
- Time: 8 am
- Highlights: Visit the stunning Ouzoud Waterfalls, choose to hike or simply relax near the falls, and go on a boat ride at the base of the falls
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up/dropoff, guide, transportation, boat ride
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check out the 1,600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
A visit to the stunning Ouzoud Waterfalls is a must for anyone looking to enjoy one of Morocco’s most breathtaking natural wonders. This full-day trip from Marrakech was a highlight of my time in Morocco, and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular (just have a look at the glowing reviews)!
The day starts with a scenic drive through picturesque villages and olive groves on your way to the falls. Once there, you’re greeted by the sight of Morocco’s largest waterfall, cascading 110 meters (330 feet) into a lush gorge below. It’s a sight that truly takes your breath away!
We spent the day exploring the area, walking the shaded trails, and stopping at viewpoints for incredible photos. Our guide was fantastic, sharing insights about the local Berber culture and pointing out the best spots along the way. We even saw some adorable monkeys swinging in the trees!
But the highlight of the day for me was the boat ride at the base of the falls. Getting so close to the roaring water was such an exhilarating experience – it’s the perfect spot for those Instagram-worthy photos!
Oh, and don’t forget to bring cash for lunch at the riverside café, where you can enjoy delicious food with a view of the falls. It was the perfect way to end the day at one of Morocco’s most iconic landmarks!
Secure your spot on this epic day trip here before it sells out!
Where to Stay in Marrakech, Morocco

Choosing where to stay in Marrakesh can make or break your trip. For the best atmosphere, we recommend staying in the Medina, where you’ll be surrounded by bustling souks and centuries-old architecture.
With plenty of options available, I’ve rounded up the best places to stay for every budget and travel style to help you find the perfect spot!
Luxury – $$$
If you’re looking for luxury right in the heart of Marrakech, the Hotel & Ryad Art Place Marrakech is a perfect pick. This 5-star hotel is located right on Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, so you’ll be steps away from all the action while still having a peaceful retreat to come back to. The rooms are beautifully designed with Moroccan touches and modern comforts. You can cool off in the rooftop pool with city views, relax in the serene courtyard, or enjoy delicious meals at the on-site restaurant.
Prices range depending on the season but can start as low as $200 USD per night. Check all the room options and book this luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
For a comfortable and stylish stay without the luxury price tag, the Atlas Palace & Spa Marrakech is a great choice. It offers spacious and beautifully decorated rooms right in the heart of the Medina. Guests can start their day with a complimentary breakfast, relax by the indoor pool, unwind at the on-site spa, or enjoy a drink at the onsite bar. With friendly service and a prime location, it’s a fantastic mid-range stay in Marrakesh!
Prices Start around $150 USD per night and you can check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
If you’re looking for an affordable stay in Marrakech without sacrificing comfort, Dar Yassine is a great option. All rooms have Moroccan decor with en-suite bathrooms and private terraces, giving you a cozy space to relax. You can fuel up for a day of sightseeing with complimentary breakfast and enjoy a coffee at the on-site café. With friendly service and a prime location in the Medina, it’s an excellent budget-friendly stay in Marrakesh!
Rooms start as low as $75 USD per night and you can visit Booking.com to make your reservation.
For more options, see all of Marrakech’s hotels listed here!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!

That’s all for our guide on the best things to do in Marrakech, Morocco! I hope you found a few new experiences to add to your itinerary while you’re here. It’s a bucket list place to explore that’s for sure!
If your travels are taking you to other destinations, have a look through all our blogs here. We’ve been traveling the world for a long time now and have tons of tips and inspiration to share!